Sitting along the eastern coast of Central America is the stunning nation of Belize, full of exciting activities and remarkable natural wonders, including the famous diving spot of the Great Blue Hole. Explore all of the best things to do in Belize during your holiday, from wild adventures to relaxing along the shores of the Caribbean Sea. This country truly has something for everyone.
Catamaran Trips
Explore Belize’s world-famous reefs, islands and underwater world with a catamaran trip up and down the country’s stunning coastline. All catamaran’s come fully equipped with fishing gear, kayaks, on board food and beverages, as well as a great welcoming crew and all boats vary in size making them suitable for couples, families or larger groups.
One of the best parts about sailing along the Belizean coast is that itineraries can be adapted so guests can explore as they wish, with some recommendations from the captain and crew. Popular areas to explore include the evocative highlights of the coastline from Goff’s Caye and South Water Caye to Man-o-War Caye, Tobacco Caye and Bluefield Range. Guests can enjoy morning snorkelling trips from their catamarans, including swimming with a wide range of tropical fish and aquatic wildlife before relaxing into the afternoon on the tranquil island of Caye Caulker, home to white sand beaches and fresh seafood. We also recommend taking a visit to the endangered manatees in the wildlife sanctuary of Swallow Caye.
Caving in Belize
Not only do the caves in Belize offer a wide range of activities they are also of great historical significance, as many were important Mayan ceremonial sites that today contain remarkable offerings of pottery, carvings and incense.
The Belize caves have something to offer for all who visit, yet among the most stunning is the Rio Frio Cave, its natural beauty can be admired from a canoe, making it perfect for those who are not natural cavers, or the more adventurous may enjoy cave tubing at the Nohuch Che’en Reserve. The real adrenaline junkies can visit the Actun Tunichil Mucnal in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. While this involves both swimming and trekking before the walk through the cave, these efforts are well rewarded with the chance to see the crystal maiden, a victim of ritual sacrifice.
Sunrise Ride from Blancaneaux Lodge
There is no better way to start the day than with a horse ride surrounded by nature. The sunrise ride from Blancaneaux Lodge is suitable for all levels, regardless of skill and ability. Those on the early morning ride can look out for colourful birds, butterflies, whitetail deer’s and the grey fox that reside in the region making the early start well worth it.
Blanceaux Lodge also offers other rides including a short ride to the hidden falls where you can swim under the waterfall; semi-tropical rainforests, for those who enjoy long periods in the saddle; and a secluded cave; which can all be explored along the local trails.
Dive the Blue Hole
The Great Blue Hole, a perfectly circular blue sinkhole located 60 miles off Belize’s coast, is part of the Lighthouse Reef System - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - and is considered one of the greatest dive sites in the world.
The Blue Hole is especially favoured by recreational divers for its crystal-clear waters and array of marine life, and represents a real bucket list diving opportunity for many divers. It is home to a diverse range of aquatic wildlife, including angelfish, sponges, barracudas and different species of sharks as well as impressive coral formations. This, coupled with a minimum water temperature of 76 degrees (or above) as far down as 130ft, help to make the Blue Hole one of the most magnificent dive sites in the world. The Blue Hole has also been declared one of the best scuba diving spots in the world by Jacques Cousteau – famous for his roles as a French Naval Officer, Oceanographer, author and photographer.
Explore Caracol
Guatamala’s Tikal complex may be the more recognisable Mayan ruin in the region, but its historical local enemy Caracol is equally fascinating. Excavation didn’t start in earnest here until the 1980s so, while there are over 35,000 buildings, the ruins feel more like a personal discovery than a slick tourist attraction. A private local guide will delve into traditional Mayan life and the stories behind the elaborate carvings and hieroglyphics that adorn the buildings.
Snorkel off the Coast of Placencia
If you would like to explore the underwater world without having to don your wetsuit and scuba mask, head south to the coastal village of Placencia where we can organise snorkelling trips to beautiful offshore cays. You can spot all kinds of exotic coral species, as well as marine life like the colourful stoplight parrotfish, angelfish and barracuda. A perfect destination for families.
